Monday, October 7, 2013

Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (Naegleria fowleri)

This is a single-celled ameba. It goes through 3 morphic phases- Trophozoite, flagellate, and cyst. This ameba lives in warm freshwater and soil. It infects the brain and destroys brain tissue. It causes flu-like symptoms that then transform into more severe symptoms such as seizures and hallucinations. Treatment is unclear and this infection is always fatal. Although it is rare, you can prevent this disease by limiting water up your nose and staying away from dirty, neglected freshwater.